Growing Up Different & Being Forced to Be "Normal" (Autistic, ADHD, HSP, Gamers, Introverts)

Some thoughts related to growing up "different" and being forced to act "normal". It can be so freeing as adults to take steps towards embracing and reclaiming who you are after having society and people in positions of authority tell you you're flawed. A lot of us have to unlearn these early messages, and it takes time and safety to do so. I hope this video offers comfort and community to continue on your individual journeys of becoming. **Please note: This video is shared for educational and community purposes. You have every right to disagree and seek additional perspectives. This video is not an alternative to professional consultation or therapy.**

Stimming & ABA Video https://youtu.be/8wuFeIFqxQg

D.O.E.S. Model for the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)

The Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) DOES model by Elaine Aron, PhD.

Brief overview of Elaine Aron's D.O.E.S. model for describing the experiences of having the Highly Sensitive Trait. I note that about 20% of the population has this trait, so it is not rare. It is also mentioned how High Sensitivity may be an umbrella trait or term that encompasses other states of being, like ADHD, Sensory Processing, Autism, and others.

• D - depth of processing

• O - overstimulation

• E - empathy

• S - Sensitivity to Subtleties

Sensitivity & Gentleness as Strength

Being gentle and sensitive can be confused with being weak. It is not. Sharing emotion and vulnerability is one of the strongest things a person can do. It may be perceived as weak, but develop that quiet confidence. Don't let misunderstandings change who you are.

Encouragement for Idealists

Sometimes we just feel so much, and it can be too much for others... Hang in there. Our abilities to feel gives us the strengths to empathize with others to connect even more quickly and strongly. Feeling emotion can be a strength.

Giftedness & Authenticity

Wearing masks in social settings when being gifted can make one feel like a fake or imposter. It can also make others feel like they are being lied to. Gifted individuals may have a hard time navigating through this process of being authentic, and accepting this part of oneself. 

Giftedness, Perfectionism, & Disappointment

For more writings on giftedness, check out my Quora responses <3